Bahrain extend fine form with West Asia Premiership win over Dubai Tigers

Bahrain claim a 25-14 victory at Dubai Sports City to assume a three-point lead at the top of the table

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  James Kora of Bahrain gets lifted for the ball during the West Asia Premiership game against Dubai Tigers at Dubai Sports City, Dubai, on January 7, 2023. All photos Victor Besa / The National

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  Dubai Tigers huddle before their match against Bahrain.

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  Dubai Tigers leave the field during the West Asia Premiership game against Bahrain.

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  Saki Naisau scores a try in the corner for Dubai Tigers against Bahrain.

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  Team Bahrain in a huddle during their West Asia Premiership game against Dubai Tigers.

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  Dubai Tigers players and staff watch the game from the sidelines.

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  Imad Reyal celebrates after Saki Naisau scores a try for Dubai Tigers.

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  Emosi Ratuvecanaua carries the ball against Bahrain.

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  Bahrain's Jack Philips and Dubai Tigers player Moli Schaumkel grapple for the ball.

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  Dubai Tigers player Moli Schaumkel attempts to collect a hand-off.

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  Dubai Tiger player Kaybe Otukolo on the sidelines.

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  Duane Aholeilei of the Dubai Tigers in action against Bahrain.

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  Rory Smith of Dubai Tigers gets tackled by Bahrain players.

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  Moli Schaumkel runs with the ball during the game against Bahrain.

Bahrain’s impressive return to regional competition continued as they inflicted a first defeat of the campaign on Dubai Tigers on Saturday.

The two clubs were the only remaining unbeaten sides in the UAE Premiership, ahead of their West Asia Premiership meeting at Dubai Sports City.

Bahrain are arguably the most successful club in the long history of rugby in the region. Despite having missed the past two seasons because of travel limitations brought about by Covid, they remain a leading force.

Tigers, by contrast, are the youngest side in the top tier of regional rugby, yet have already laid bare their credentials this season. They won their first three matches of the campaign, and claimed the Gulf Men’s title at the Emirates Dubai Sevens last month, too.

Bahrain brought their experience to bear, though, as they won 25-14 at Sports City, to assume a three-point lead at the top of the Premiership.

Barrelhouse maintained their own pursuit of a trophy as they beat Jebel Ali Dragons II 34-25. The win puts Barrelhouse second in UAE Division 1, a point behind Dubai Hurricanes, who have placed a game more.